Dentures / Partials

Dentures, called false teeth by many, are devices made to replace missing teeth. The dentures fit onto the gums, which include both soft gum tissues and hard underlying structure of bone.

Regular dentures are removable. Other dentures are made to snap on to dental implants which are fastened with posts that are cemented into the bones of the jaw. You simply snap the teeth into your mouth each morning.

Some dentures replace only some teeth and are fastened to the adjoining remaining natural teeth, called partials. These appliances have a lower cost than fixed partials.

The crowns and bridges that are familiar to most people are made to be permanently placed on the adjoining natural teeth with a crown. Then, a bridging appliance, called a pontic, covers the area of the gum that is missing teeth. This permanent bridge is more stable, but also more costly.

There are many problems that occur with older, poorly fitting dentures. Bone loss, slipping, mouth sores, clicking noises and even speech problems can occur.

Removable dentures require periodic relining to help them fit better as your bone ages. Many denture wearers depend on daily use of denture adhesive creams to help keep them properly and securely in place.

The most secure dentures and partials are made using appliances secured by permanently implanted posts used as anchors that are drilled into and then permanently cemented into the jaw bones.

Patients who use these securely supported dentures can eliminate all of the problems associated with removable dentures. They look and act just like natural teeth when eating and speaking.

All types of dentures are made by technicians at commercial dental labs. They use combinations of powder acrylic to achieve a match to the natural teeth. They can make acrylic teeth in many shapes and colors.

If you need full or partial dentures, Dr. Muller will examine you closely and give you his best recommendations for treatment.

If there is an affordability question, don’t hesitate to tell Dr. Muller at the initial appointment. He will be happy to discuss the issue with you. Remember, while permanent dentures may cost more initially, there is a significant savings in the long run. This savings will be carefully and fully explained to you. Also, our office has financing options from a special dental lender for you to consider.

Once the replacement device is decided upon, Dr. Muller begins the process of making dentures by taking an impression of the patient’s mouth. This impression is then used to create a model made of stone.

The denture is then made from the model in a lost-wax process. After the curing, the stone investment is removed and the technician polishes the acrylic to finish the process. The denture is then returned to Dr. Muller to make sure the denture fits and works well for you.

Our prime consideration is our patients’ dental health and prevention of further tooth loss in the future. You can be sure that your comfort and satisfaction with your new appliances are the goals of everyone at Muller Family Dentistry.